History of Row-Crop and Vegetable IPM Extension Programs in Florida1

frequently been referred to as a natural greenhouse. Commercial food crops can be found growing somewhere in the state 12 months of the year. Numerous vegetables are grown over a wide area during all four seasons of the year. Citrus, avocados, mangos, pecans and other minor perennial fruits have been established over decades. The soil, turf and ornamental industry has grown rapidly to meet the needs of the state as well as national demands. Florida has unique geography and climate. It is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean on the east, and by the Gulf of Mexico on the west and along the southern coast of the panhandle portion of the state. The state has nearly 1,200 miles of general direct coastline, 2,276 miles of tidal shoreline, numerou